US6323894B1
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Commercial product routing system with video vending capability
Assignee: Telebuyer LLC
•
Filing: 1994-01-27
•
Granted: 2001-11-27
•
Expires: 2014-01-27
Abstract
Abstract A traffic control system selectively interfaces members of plural groups, as buyer groups and vendor groups, for video communication through a dial-up telephone system, for analyzing and compiling data, scheduling appointments, implementing conferences, consummating sales and the like. The traffic-control system comprises a telephonic interface apparatus for interfacing remote telephonic terminals of the dial-up telephone system identified with the members of plural groups, a video recording unit for recording and playing video transcriptions, a storage memory for storing data on the members, including telephonic terminal numbers and area-of-interest codes and a control computer to selectively interconnect the video recording unit with the remote telephone terminals through the telephonic interface apparatus to record and receive video communication.
Inventors
- 👤 Ronald A. Katz
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-30 07:45
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06Q; G06Q30/00; G06Q30/02; G06Q20/00; G06Q20/08; G06Q20/20; G06Q20/208; G06Q30/06; G06Q30/0601; G06Q30/0613; G06Q30/08; G08; G08B; G08B13/00; G08B13/18; G08B13/189; G08B13/194; G08B13/196; G08B13/19639; G08B13/19645; G08B13/19654; G08B13/19658; G08B13/19678; G08B13/19689; H; H04; H04M; H04M3/00; H04M3/42; H04M3/487; H04M3/493; H04M3/50; H04M3/51; H04M3/5158; H04M3/56; H04M3/563; H04M3/565; H04M3/567; H04M7/00; H04M7/006; H04N; H04N21/00; H04N21/20; H04N21/21; H04N21/218; H04N21/2187; H04N21/40; H04N21/41; H04N21/422; H04N21/4223; H04N21/43; H04N21/433; H04N21/4334; H04N5/00; H04N5/76; H04N7/00; H04N7/14; H04N7/141; H04N7/142; H04N7/147; H04N7/15; H04N7/152; H04M3/22; H04M3/2281; H04M3/432; H04M3/5125; H04M3/564
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 200
Claim 1
Independent Claim
361 words
A method for directing and exchanging on-line and off-line communications under control of a traffic control system to accomplish transactions that relate to merchandise or a service available for purchase, the method involving selectively interfacing under control of the traffic control system, buyers at a plurality of remote locations using personal computers with video capability, with one or more vendors with a capability to electronically communicate through a public communication system, comprising the steps of: interfacing the buyers with the traffic control system in communication with one or more vendors, through the public communication system wherein at least certain buyers electronically communicate with the traffic control system via digital lines of the public communication system; receiving request data from the buyers, at the traffic control system in communication with the one or more vendors the request data entered by the buyers to indicate an area of interest concerning the merchandise or the service and including an indication of the maximum amount the buyers are willing to pay for select merchandise or service; receiving identification data provided by buyers from the remote video terminals at the traffic control system; storing at least a part of the request data from the buyers at the traffic control system and using at least a part of it to selectively obtain proposed data from the vendor responsive to the buyers' request data; providing access concurrently by the buyers under control of the traffic control system to a video file server for conveying one or more video images as part of the proposed data relating to the area of interest indicated by the buyers, the video images previously obtained from vendors for subsequent viewing by interested buyers; location used by said interfaced buyer to allow the buyer to view the video data and the graphic data relating to the request data prior to making a purchase; also storing at the traffic control system, billing data including a record of charges incurred for each buyer relating to transactions initiated by interfaced buyers; and electronically transmitting an indication of confirmation relating to the transaction initiated after an interface between the interfaced buyer and the traffic control system is terminated.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
361 words
A method for directing and exchanging on-line and off-line communications under control of a traffic control system to accomplish transactions that relate to merchandise or a service available for purchase, the method involving selectively interfacing under control of the traffic control system, buyers at a plurality of remote locations using personal computers with video capability, with one or more vendors with a capability to electronically communicate through a public communication system, comprising the steps of: interfacing the buyers with the traffic control system in communication with one or more vendors, through the public communication system wherein at least certain buyers electronically communicate with the traffic control system via digital lines of the public communication system; receiving request data from the buyers, at the traffic control system in communication with the one or more vendors the request data entered by the buyers to indicate an area of interest concerning the merchandise or the service and including an indication of the maximum amount the buyers are willing to pay for select merchandise or service; receiving identification data provided by buyers from the remote video terminals at the traffic control system; storing at least a part of the request data from the buyers at the traffic control system and using at least a part of it to selectively obtain proposed data from the vendor responsive to the buyers' request data; providing access concurrently by the buyers under control of the traffic control system to a video file server for conveying one or more video images as part of the proposed data relating to the area of interest indicated by the buyers, the video images previously obtained from vendors for subsequent viewing by interested buyers; location used by said interfaced buyer to allow the buyer to view the video data and the graphic data relating to the request data prior to making a purchase; also storing at the traffic control system, billing data including a record of charges incurred for each buyer relating to transactions initiated by interfaced buyers; and electronically transmitting an indication of confirmation relating to the transaction initiated after an interface between the interfaced buyer and the traffic control system is terminated.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
62 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein the request data from the interfaced buyer includes data to facilitate subsequent electronic communication and wherein the method further comprises the step of: downloading additional data relating to the area of interest to the interfaced buyer's computer by subsequent electronic communication, after the interface between the interfaced buyer and traffic control system is terminated.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 2 , wherein the additional data indicates that a presentation including video related to an indicated area of interest is available at the traffic control system.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein the interfacing is accomplished over ISDN lines.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 2 , further comprising the step of: identifying the personal computers used by the buyers based upon automatically provided incoming data signals.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 5 , wherein the incoming data signals are ANI signals.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein the stored video data includes dynamic motion video.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 7 , wherein the stored video data includes audio data.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
41 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: facilitating access by the buyers to various different vendors under control of the traffic control system wherein each vendor has its own video storage device for storing video data.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
45 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: utilizing a clock to limit and control the time during which an offering by a vendor including provision of video data to the buyer is made under control of the traffic control system.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 10 , further comprising the step of: monitoring time limitations with the clock.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein the stored video data includes a graphical display including text of pertinent data associated with a vendor.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method according to claim 12 , further comprising the step of: registering the buyers or vendors or both with the traffic control system prior to facilitating electronic communications.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 13 , wherein the registering step requires the buyers or the vendors or both to provide their names.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 13 , wherein the registering step requires the buyers or the vendors or both to provide data to facilitate subsequent electronic communications.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 13 , wherein the registering step requires the buyers or the vendors or both to provide their telephone numbers.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
33 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: requiring the buyers to provide identification data prior to allowing the buyers access to stored video data associated with any vendor.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
40 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: storing one or more video images as part of the stored video data relating to a particular vendor at the video storage device located at a vendor site.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
39 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: storing the video data from a plurality of different vendors at the video storage device that is located at a site associated with the traffic control system.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 19 , wherein the traffic control system has a data file including a list of merchandise or service codes.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
39 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: offering the buyers various choices as part of the proposed data associated with a vendor, as related to the area of interest indicated by the interfaced buyer.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
37 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: including within the area of interest, data on specific merchandise or service that a buyer is interested in purchasing identified by merchandise or service codes.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein a vendor notifies the buyers via the traffic control system of discounted merchandise available for purchase after the initiated transaction.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 22 , further comprising the step of: providing EDI to facilitate consummation of a sale transaction between buyers and a vendor.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 22 , wherein the specific merchandise is a tangible good.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 22 , wherein the buyer consummates sale of the specific merchandise or service.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 22 , wherein the buyer provides billing information for a purchase transaction.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: providing an identification number that identifies the transaction to a buyer.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 28 , wherein the identification number is provided during the interface facilitated under control of the traffic control system.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 28 , wherein the identification number is provided with the indication of confirmation after the interface facilitated under control of the traffic control system is terminated.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein communications to accomplish the transaction include transmission of audio data.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein the stored video data include high resolution still images.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: providing a graphical display including text data associated with the buyer via the traffic control system.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer of the stored video data via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer of the stored video data including stored dynamic video via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 35 , wherein the manipulation facilitates a pan, tilt, or zoom operation.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein the traffic control system stores data to facilitate communication between different business entities of which the buyers and vendor are representatives.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer of the stored video data including high resolution still image data via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: facilitating control of the request data provided by the buyer at least in part via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: maintaining at the traffic control system a record of prior transactions with buyers and charges associated with the prior transactions.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
37 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: storing EDI software at a site associated with the traffic control system for use by the buyers and a vendor via the traffic control system.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: registering buyers with the traffic control system and during the registration step, designating an identification number for use in subsequent electronic communications.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 42 , further comprising the step of: providing a check digit as part of the identification number.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: facilitating on-line communication between the buyers and the traffic control system via an on-line computer service.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 44 , further comprising the step of: connecting the buyers with the traffic control system using an autodialing operation.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 44 , further comprising the step of: maintaining a record of various buyers accessing the traffic control system.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 46 , further comprising the step of: also maintaining a record of the amount of time individual buyers spend viewing the stored video data at the video storage device.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 1 , comprising the step of: obtaining data through the traffic control system on buyer reactions to an offer associated with select stored video data viewed by the buyers.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: offering to the buyers various selections relating to an area of interest indicated by the buyers.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
49 words
A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of: associating one or more sites with the buyers; and requiring vendors to register with the traffic control system to entitle access to one or more site associated with the buyers by providing information relating to the vendors.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
13 words
A method according to claim 50 , wherein the vendors provide name data.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 50 , wherein the vendors provide area of interest data.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 50 , wherein the vendors provide a name of a business entity with which each one is associated.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 50 , wherein the vendors provide data to facilitate subsequent electronic communication.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 50 , wherein the vendors provide telephone number data.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 1 , wherein both the buyers and the vendors are associated with separate business entities for communications between the business entities.
Claim 58
Independent Claim
334 words
A method enabling on-line and off-line communications, including video communications, between at least two parties to accomplish a transaction, for example buyers or vendors, using remote terminals with communication capability such as personal computers, through a public communication system, the on-line and off-line communications directed under control of a traffic control system, comprising the steps of: registering buyers with the traffic control system to entitle buyers for communication with or obtaining data relating to the merchandise or services offered by different vendors, the buyers providing identification data as part of the registration process for facilitating subsequent electronic communication; interfacing a buyer at a remote terminal, with a stored video data site including stored video sales presentations relating to different vendors, through said public communication system, to facilitate on-line electronic communication under control of the traffic control system, said buyer using said remote terminal to enter request data relating to a specific area of interest that is selectively transmitted by the traffic control system to the stored video data site relating to a select vendor or group of vendors; selectively providing the interfaced buyer with select data relating to the specific area of interest indicated by the interfaced buyer, from the stored video data site, including high resolution still image data or dynamic video data or a combination of both as well as providing text data including pricing information; terminating communication between the interfaced buyer and the traffic control system and the stored video data site associated with a select vendor or group of vendors; subsequently transmitting to the interfaced buyer by electronic communication, certain data relating to the specific area of interest indicated by the interfaced buyer by downloading the data via the traffic control system to a buyer's remote terminal; and compiling a record of buyers that have interfaced with the stored video data site in relation to the specific area of interest and notifying the buyers of availability of one or more other video sales presentations relating to the area of interest.
Claim 59
Independent Claim
334 words
A method enabling on-line and off-line communications, including video communications, between at least two parties to accomplish a transaction, for example buyers or vendors, using remote terminals with communication capability such as personal computers, through a public communication system, the on-line and off-line communications directed under control of a traffic control system, comprising the steps of: registering buyers with the traffic control system to entitle buyers for communication with or obtaining data relating to the merchandise or services offered by different vendors, the buyers providing identification data as part of the registration process for facilitating subsequent electronic communication; interfacing a buyer at a remote terminal, with a stored video data site including stored video sales presentations relating to different vendors, through said public communication system, to facilitate on-line electronic communication under control of the traffic control system, said buyer using said remote terminal to enter request data relating to a specific area of interest that is selectively transmitted by the traffic control system to the stored video data site relating to a select vendor or group of vendors; selectively providing the interfaced buyer with select data relating to the specific area of interest indicated by the interfaced buyer, from the stored video data site, including high resolution still image data or dynamic video data or a combination of both as well as providing text data including pricing information; terminating communication between the interfaced buyer and the traffic control system and the stored video data site associated with a select vendor or group of vendors; subsequently transmitting to the interfaced buyer by electronic communication, certain data relating to the specific area of interest indicated by the interfaced buyer by downloading the data via the traffic control system to a buyer's remote terminal; and compiling a record of buyers that have interfaced with the stored video data site in relation to the specific area of interest and notifying the buyers of availability of one or more other video sales presentations relating to the area of interest.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the remote terminals include a capability to facilitate control by the interfaced buyer of a display of the stored video data at the buyer remote terminal.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the on-line communications are accomplished via an on-line computer service.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the request data entered by the interfaced buyer indicates an amount the buyer is willing to pay for a specific item or service to which the transaction relates.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
37 words
A method according to claim 60 , wherein the select data relating to the area of interest transmitted to the interfaced buyer, also relates to the buyer's indication of the amount the buyer is willing to pay.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the stored video data includes dynamic motion video.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the stored video data includes audio data.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the traffic control system facilitates access by the interfaced buyer to various different seller sites having at least stored video data for different sellers.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 64 , wherein the request data entered by the interfaced buyer indicates an amount the buyers are willing to pay for a specific item or service to which the transaction relates.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 65 , wherein the certain data transmitted to the buyer by electronic communication relates to the buyer's indication of the amount the buyers are willing to pay.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein presentation of the stored video data is limited and controlled by a clock.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein a remote terminal used by the buyer is automatically identified based upon incoming data signals provided to the traffic control system.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the buyer and the vendor register with the traffic control system by providing their names.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the buyer and the vendor register with the traffic control system by providing data to facilitate electronic communications.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the buyer and the vendor register with the traffic control system by providing their telephone numbers.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the buyer provides identification data that is utilized to allow the buyer to access the stored video data site associated with one or more of the different vendors.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: storing the video data of a particular vendor at a vendor's own site.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: storing the video data of the different vendors at the traffic control system site.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the traffic control system site serves the buyers and vendors.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: offering the interfaced buyer various choices relating to the area of interest indicated by the buyer.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the area of interest includes data on a specific item or service that a buyer is interested in purchasing.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 77 , wherein the vendor is apprised of amount that a buyer is willing to pay for the specific item or service.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 77 , further comprising the step of: providing EDI to facilitate consummation of a sale transaction between buyers and vendors.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 77 , wherein the specific item is a tangible good.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 77 , wherein the buyer consummates sale of the tangible item or service.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 77 , wherein the buyer provides billing information for a purchase transaction.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: providing an identification number to the buyer to identify a transaction.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 83 , wherein the identification number is provided to the buyer during the interface facilitated under control of the traffic control system.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 83 , wherein the identification number is provided after the interface facilitated under control of the traffic control system is terminated.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the communications to accomplish a transaction include transmission of audio data.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the stored video data includes high resolution still image data.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: providing a graphical display including text associated with the buyer via the traffic control system.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer of the stored video data via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the interfaced buyer of the stored data including stored dynamic video via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 90 , wherein the manipulation further comprises the step of facilitating a zoom, tilt, or pan operation.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein the on-line communications is facilitated via an on-line computer service.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer of the stored data including high resolution still image data via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: facilitating control of data entered by the interfaced buyer at least in part via a mouse.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
41 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: maintaining at the data site associated with a vendor or at the traffic control system, a record of prior buyer transactions and charges associated with the prior buyer transactions.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: storing EDI software at a site associated with the traffic control system for use by the buyer and the vendor.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: registering buyers including designating an identification number for use in subsequent electronic communications.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 97 , further comprising the step of: providing a check digit as part of the identification number.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
41 words
A method according to claim 92 , further comprising the step of: connecting the buyer for on-line communication with the traffic control system or the stored video data site associated with one or more of the different vendors via an autodialer.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: maintaining a record of various buyers accessing the stored video data site associated with one or more of different vendors.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
47 words
A method according to claim 100 , further comprising the step of: also maintaining a record of the amount of time the interfaced buyer spent viewing one or more video sales presentations at the stored video data site associated with one or more of the different vendors.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
42 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: obtaining from the traffic control system data on buyer reaction to a vendor offer associated with one or more of the stored video sales presentations viewed by the interfaced buyer.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: providing the buyer with selections relating to the specific area of interest indicated by the interfaced buyer.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
48 words
A method according to claim 57 , further comprising the step of: associating stored video data with the buyer; and requiring vendors to register with the traffic control system to entitle access to the stored video data associated with the buyer by providing information relating to the vendors.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
13 words
A method according to claim 104 , wherein the vendors provide name data.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 104 , wherein the vendors provide area of interest data.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 104 , wherein the vendors provide a name for a business entity with which each one is associated.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 104 , wherein the vendors provide data to facilitate subsequent electronic communication.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 104 , wherein the vendors provide telephone number data.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 57 , wherein both the buyer and the vendor are associated with separate business entities for communications between the business entities.
Claim 113
Independent Claim
406 words
A method for routing and facilitating on-line and off-line electronic communications through a public communication system between buyer and seller parties from different business entities registered with a central communication control system, the buyer or seller parties from one business entity utilizing electronic communication devices with video capability, to interact with the buyer or seller parties of another business entity under control of the central communication control system, comprising the steps of: receiving identification data, from the electronic communication devices utilized by the buyer and seller parties of the different business entities that is verified at the central communication control system to ensure that the buyers and sellers are appropriately registered, whereby the central communication control system routes and facilitates communications between the buyer and seller parties through the public communication system; receiving other data from the buyer or seller parties of the different business entities including data to facilitate on-line and off-line communications and data to indicate a select merchandise or service code designated by the channels of commerce and an area of interest; providing access to stored video sales presentation data and text data including pricing information relating to select merchandise or service corresponding to the select merchandise or service code indicated by either the buyer or seller parties, the stored video and text data obtained from the buyers or sellers associated with the different business entities under control of the central communication control system and accessible to either of buyer or seller parties of the different business entities or both and the video and text data provided upon access or request by either party; storing certain of the other data for the buyer or seller parties of different business entities including data entered by the buyer or seller parties during a transaction through the central communication control system and based on the data entered by the seller or buyer parties indicating the area of interest, creating a record for buyer or seller parties or both relating to an area of interest for subsequent notification; terminating communication between the buyer and seller parties of the different business entities; processing the record for buyer or seller parties to isolate a select group of buyers or sellers relating to the indicated area of interest: and subsequently routing electronic data from either of the buyer or seller parties to each individual buyer or seller of the select group of buyers or sellers isolated during the processing site.
Claim 114
Independent Claim
406 words
A method for routing and facilitating on-line and off-line electronic communications through a public communication system between buyer and seller parties from different business entities registered with a central communication control system, the buyer or seller parties from one business entity utilizing electronic communication devices with video capability, to interact with the buyer or seller parties of another business entity under control of the central communication control system, comprising the steps of: receiving identification data, from the electronic communication devices utilized by the buyer and seller parties of the different business entities that is verified at the central communication control system to ensure that the buyers and sellers are appropriately registered, whereby the central communication control system routes and facilitates communications between the buyer and seller parties through the public communication system; receiving other data from the buyer or seller parties of the different business entities including data to facilitate on-line and off-line communications and data to indicate a select merchandise or service code designated by the channels of commerce and an area of interest; providing access to stored video sales presentation data and text data including pricing information relating to select merchandise or service corresponding to the select merchandise or service code indicated by either the buyer or seller parties, the stored video and text data obtained from the buyers or sellers associated with the different business entities under control of the central communication control system and accessible to either of buyer or seller parties of the different business entities or both and the video and text data provided upon access or request by either party; storing certain of the other data for the buyer or seller parties of different business entities including data entered by the buyer or seller parties during a transaction through the central communication control system and based on the data entered by the seller or buyer parties indicating the area of interest, creating a record for buyer or seller parties or both relating to an area of interest for subsequent notification; terminating communication between the buyer and seller parties of the different business entities; processing the record for buyer or seller parties to isolate a select group of buyers or sellers relating to the indicated area of interest: and subsequently routing electronic data from either of the buyer or seller parties to each individual buyer or seller of the select group of buyers or sellers isolated during the processing site.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the stored video presentation data is dynamic motion video.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method according to claim 112 , wherein the stored video presentation data includes audio data.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method according to claim 111 wherein the traffic control system facilitates access by a buyer to party various different seller party sites having at least stored video sales presentation data for different seller parties.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein certain of the other data indicated by the buyer parties indicates a maximum amount the buyer parties are willing to pay for a specific item or service.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the stored video presentation data includes a graphical display including text of pertinent data.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the buyer and the seller parties are registered with the traffic control system that facilitates the communications between the buyer and the seller parties.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
33 words
A method according to claim 117 , wherein the buyer and the seller parties register with the traffic control system by providing their names or the names of the business entities they represent.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 117 , wherein the buyer and the seller parties register with the traffic control system by providing data to facilitate subsequent electronic communications.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 117 , wherein the buyer and the seller parties register with the traffic control system by providing their telephone numbers.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the stored video presentation data relating to a particular seller is located at the seller's own facility.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
33 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the stored video sales presentation data related to a plurality of different sellers is located at a site associated with the central communication control system.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 122 , wherein the central communication control system site is accessed by both buyers and sellers via an on-line computer service.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the buyer or seller parties are offered various choices relating to the area of interest indicated by the buyer or seller parties.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the area of interest includes data on the select merchandise or service that a buyer party is interested in purchasing or a seller party is interested in selling.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method according to claim 125 , wherein a seller party is apprised of an amount that a buyer party is willing to pay for the select merchandise or service.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 126 , further comprising the step of: providing EDI to facilitate consummation of a sale transaction between the buyer and seller parties.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 125 , wherein the select merchandise is a tangible good.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 128 , wherein the buyer party consummates sale of the tangible good or service.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 129 , wherein the buyer part provides billing information for a purchase transaction.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: providing an identification number to identify a transaction to the buyer party.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 131 , wherein the identification number is provided during the interface facilitated under control of the central communication control system.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 131 , wherein the identification number is provided with an indication of confirmation after the interface facilitated under control of the traffic control system is terminated.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the communications to accomplish a transaction include transmission of audio data.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the stored video presentation data includes high resolution still image data.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the buyer and the seller parties register with the traffic control system by providing information to facilitate subsequent electronic communication.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the on-line electronic communications are accomplished via an on-line computer service.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method according to claim 111 , wherein the off-line electronic communication includes subsequent electronic communication.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: providing to the seller party a graphical display including text associated with the buyer party.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer party of the stored video presentation data via a mouse.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer of the stored video presentation data including stored dynamic video via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method according to claim 141 , wherein the manipulation further comprises the step of facilitating a pan or zoom operation.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 141 , wherein the manipulation further comprises the step of facilitating a tilt operation.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
37 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the buyer of the stored video presentation data including high resolution still image data via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: facilitating control of data provided by the buyer party least in part via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
43 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: maintaining at the central communication control system or at a data site associated with the buyer or seller parties a record of prior transactions and charges associated with the prior transactions.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: storing EDI software at the central communication control system site for use by the buyer and the seller parties.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: registering buyers with the central communication control system including designating an identification number for use in subsequent electronic communications.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 148 , further comprising the step of: providing a check digit as part of the identification number.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: facilitating electronic communication by connecting the buyer or seller parties to an on-line computer service via an autodialer.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: maintaining a record of an extent of access by various buyer parties to a video data site associated with a particular seller.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 151 , further comprising the step of: also maintaining a record of an amount of time a buyer party spent viewing the stored video presentation data associated with the particular seller.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
37 words
A method according to claim 151 , further comprising the step of: obtaining data through the central communication control system on buyer party reaction to an offer associated with the stored video viewed by a buyer party.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 151 , further comprising the step of: offering the buyer party selections relating to an area of interest indicated by the buyer party.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
52 words
A method according to claim 151 , further comprising the step of: associating a video data site with a buyer party; and requiring seller parties to register with the central communication control system to access the video data site associated with the buyer party by providing information relating to the seller parties.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 151 , wherein the seller parties provide name data.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method according to claim 151 , wherein the seller parties provide area of interest data.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 151 , wherein the seller parties provide a name for a business entity with which each one is associated.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 150 , wherein the seller parties provide data to facilitate electronic communication.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 150 , wherein the seller parties provide telephone number data.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
39 words
A method according to claim 111 , further comprising the step of: automatically identifying the electronic communication device used by either the buyer or seller parties based upon incoming data signals automatically provided to the central communication control system.
Claim 165
Independent Claim
386 words
A method for facilitating on-line and off-line electronic communications, through a communication network system, between at least certain groups of persons such as buyers and sellers with a central communication control system of an independently managed third party for accomplishing transactions, comprising the steps of: registering the buyers and sellers with the central communication control system wherein the buyers and sellers provide data for registration to identify themselves; interfacing the buyers and sellers with the central communication control system, wherein at least certain of the buyers or sellers or both access the central communication control system for on-line communication; storing at the central communication control system or at other storage location associated therewith, information data relating to the buyers or sellers including stored video including sales presentations and text data that is variously obtained from the buyers or sellers; receiving at the central communication control system from at least certain of the buyers or sellers, request data to initiate a transaction indicating an area of interest relating to a merchandise or a service available for purchase, the request data provided via personal computers, furthermore, receiving other data as part of the registration data or otherwise for the buyers or sellers or both including data to facilitate subsequent off-line electronic communication; storing the data for facilitating electronic communication for the buyers or sellers or both at the central communication control system or other storage location associated therewith and selectively recording buyer or seller activity data in association with the area of interest relating to the merchandise or the service, the buyer or seller activity data including the length of interface time between the buyers or sellers via the central communication control system tracked by the communication network system; under control of the request data, providing from the central communication control system either to the buyers or sellers or both, either high resolution freeze frame data or dynamic video data or both and additional text data relating to the area of interest indicated by the buyers or sellers or both; and also storing data relating to the transaction initiated by either the buyer or seller parties and assigning an identification number to the transaction initiated and that relates to a select video sales presentation that is provided in text form to either of the buyer or seller parties.
Claim 166
Independent Claim
386 words
A method for facilitating on-line and off-line electronic communications, through a communication network system, between at least certain groups of persons such as buyers and sellers with a central communication control system of an independently managed third party for accomplishing transactions, comprising the steps of: registering the buyers and sellers with the central communication control system wherein the buyers and sellers provide data for registration to identify themselves; interfacing the buyers and sellers with the central communication control system, wherein at least certain of the buyers or sellers or both access the central communication control system for on-line communication; storing at the central communication control system or at other storage location associated therewith, information data relating to the buyers or sellers including stored video including sales presentations and text data that is variously obtained from the buyers or sellers; receiving at the central communication control system from at least certain of the buyers or sellers, request data to initiate a transaction indicating an area of interest relating to a merchandise or a service available for purchase, the request data provided via personal computers, furthermore, receiving other data as part of the registration data or otherwise for the buyers or sellers or both including data to facilitate subsequent off-line electronic communication; storing the data for facilitating electronic communication for the buyers or sellers or both at the central communication control system or other storage location associated therewith and selectively recording buyer or seller activity data in association with the area of interest relating to the merchandise or the service, the buyer or seller activity data including the length of interface time between the buyers or sellers via the central communication control system tracked by the communication network system; under control of the request data, providing from the central communication control system either to the buyers or sellers or both, either high resolution freeze frame data or dynamic video data or both and additional text data relating to the area of interest indicated by the buyers or sellers or both; and also storing data relating to the transaction initiated by either the buyer or seller parties and assigning an identification number to the transaction initiated and that relates to a select video sales presentation that is provided in text form to either of the buyer or seller parties.
Claim 167
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the stored video includes dynamic motion video.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the stored video includes audio data.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the central communication control system records ratings data relating to the buyers or sellers.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the stored video data includes a graphic display including text of pertinent data.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the buyers and the sellers are registered with the central communication control system that facilitates the communications between the buyers and the sellers.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the buyers and the sellers register with the central communication control system by providing their names.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 163 , wherein the buyers and the sellers register with the central communication control system by providing data to facilitate communications.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the buyers and the sellers register with the central communication control system by providing their telephone numbers.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: storing the video data of a particular seller at the seller's own site.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: storing the video data of a plurality of different sellers at a site associated with the central communication control system.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 172 , wherein the site associated with the central communication control system serves the buyers and sellers.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: providing EDI to facilitate consummation of a sale transaction between buyers and sellers.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the merchandise is a tangible good.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 175 , wherein the buyers consummate sale of the tangible good or service.
Claim 181
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: providing an identification number to identify a transaction to a particular buyer.
Claim 182
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the identification number is provided during or after the interface facilitated under control of the central communication control system.
Claim 183
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the stored video data includes high resolution still image data.
Claim 184
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by a buyer of the stored video data via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 185
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 162 , wherein the manipulation further comprises the step of facilitating a zoom or pan or tilt operation.
Claim 186
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: facilitating communication via an on-line computer service.
Claim 187
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: facilitating control by a buyer of the stored video data.
Claim 188
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 162 , further comprising the step of: facilitating on-line communication via an autodialing operation.
Claim 189
Independent Claim
293 words
A method enabling on-line and off-line communications including video communication, between at least two parties from different buyer-vendor groups, located at remote terminals with communication capability, for example personal computers, through a public communication system, the communications directed and exchanged under control of a central data system that facilitates interactive data sharing by the parties, comprising the steps of: interfacing at least a requesting one of the parties from a first group, at a remote terminal, with the central data system, for on-line communication through said public communication system wherein said party uses said remote terminal to request data from the central data system; receiving data from the requesting party to indicate an area of interest and other data to facilitate further electronic communication; storing at least a part of the data received from the requesting party indicative of an area of interest at the central data system; selectively providing select data relating to the area of interest from the central data system, the select data including stored video data obtained from a video storage device associated with the central data system, the video storage device having a plurality of different video images relating to different areas of interest obtained from parties of a second group, the select data obtained from the video storage device and comprising either high resolution freeze frame data or dynamic data or both and a graphic including text display of pertinent information relating to the area of interest; transmitting from the central data system to the requesting party a notification soliciting further viewing of video and text data embodied in sales presentations relating to the select area of interest; and subsequently interfacing the requesting party to the central data system for further viewing of select video sales presentations.
Claim 190
Independent Claim
293 words
A method enabling on-line and off-line communications including video communication, between at least two parties from different buyer-vendor groups, located at remote terminals with communication capability, for example personal computers, through a public communication system, the communications directed and exchanged under control of a central data system that facilitates interactive data sharing by the parties, comprising the steps of: interfacing at least a requesting one of the parties from a first group, at a remote terminal, with the central data system, for on-line communication through said public communication system wherein said party uses said remote terminal to request data from the central data system; receiving data from the requesting party to indicate an area of interest and other data to facilitate further electronic communication; storing at least a part of the data received from the requesting party indicative of an area of interest at the central data system; selectively providing select data relating to the area of interest from the central data system, the select data including stored video data obtained from a video storage device associated with the central data system, the video storage device having a plurality of different video images relating to different areas of interest obtained from parties of a second group, the select data obtained from the video storage device and comprising either high resolution freeze frame data or dynamic data or both and a graphic including text display of pertinent information relating to the area of interest; transmitting from the central data system to the requesting party a notification soliciting further viewing of video and text data embodied in sales presentations relating to the select area of interest; and subsequently interfacing the requesting party to the central data system for further viewing of select video sales presentations.
Claim 191
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 185 , wherein the stored video includes dynamic motion video.
Claim 192
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 185 , wherein the stored video includes audio data.
Claim 193
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 185 , wherein the parties from the different buyer-vendor groups register with the central data system by providing their names.
Claim 194
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 185 , wherein the parties register with the central data system by providing data to facilitate communications.
Claim 195
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method according to claim 185 , wherein the parties register with the central data system by providing their telephone numbers.
Claim 196
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 185 , wherein the stored video data includes high resolution still image data.
Claim 197
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 185 , further comprising the step of: facilitating manipulation by the requesting party of the stored video data via a peripheral device such as a mouse.
Claim 198
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method according to claim 189 , wherein the manipulation further comprises the step of facilitating a zoom or pan or tilt operation.
Claim 199
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 185 , further comprising the step of: maintaining a record of various parties accessing the central data system and viewing the video data.
Claim 200
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method according to claim 185 , further comprising the step of: also maintaining a record of the amount of time a particular party spent viewing the stored video data at the central data system.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2004-11-26 | 2005-05-28 | 2005-11-27 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2008-11-26 | 2009-05-28 | 2009-11-27 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2012-11-26 | 2013-05-28 | 2013-11-27 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |